SamprasFanz

Bio & Career

Pete Sampras Tennis Retirement Ceremony

On August 25, 2002, Pete Sampras was honored with a tribute at the US Open
for his official retirement from professional tennis. Prior to the
ceremony, he held a press
conference and explained that he has accomplished all that he wanted
to. Sampras said, "I'm not retiring because I'm married or I
have a son. I'm retiring because I have nothing to prove to myself."

Pete explained that he knew it was time to stop when he started practicing
for Wimbledon but his heart was not into it. He said, "I knew
once Wimbledon came and went that it was time for me to stop... It was time
to call it a career.

"To say goodbye to it, to say I'm not going to play again, not going
to be out here on this court, it's emotional," he said. "A part
of me is still out there. But I'm also realistic in knowing that my time
is done. I've done everything I can do. I'm at peace with stopping, and
now it's time to move on."

At the ceremony, as soon as Pete Sampras was introduced and stepped on
court, the thousands of fans in the stadium greeted him with a long standing
ovation that brought tears to his eyes.

Tennis legends Jim Courier, Boris Becker, John McEnroe, together with his
coach Paul Annacone were on hand to pay tribute to Pete Sampras. Andre
Agassi, through taped video called Pete as "the best I've ever played
with".

Pete said that he was both overwhelmed and touched by the tribute accorded
him. He thanked his family, his parents and siblings and his coaches,
Paul Annacone and the late Tim Gullikson. He especially thanked his
wife Bridgette of her unwavering support during the most difficult period
of his career. He also thanked his fans for their support.

To culminate the ceremony, Pete took one last "victory lap" around
the court of Flushing Meadoww and instead of a trophy, Pete carried his
son Christian.

Good-bye, Pete! Thank you for the memories.

Pete Sampras Commemorative Plaque

"In a career that spanned three decades, Pete Sampras rewrote the
record books in the men's game and redefined the word 'Champion'.
His quiet confidence, unfailing courage and unparalleled commitment to excellence
defined him as a player and a person.

Sampras' 14 Grand Slam titles are a mark which is likely to stand for all-time,
as will the legacy of a man who graced the great sport of tennis with his
singular brillance and class."